We take light for granted, yet it is a most surprising phenomenon. For example, it is completely invisible. And it travels fast enough to circle the earth seven times in a single second.

This book explains what we know about light and how we obtained the information. It presents experiments to test the facts, and it encourages the reader to form his own hypotheses. Ways to measure light intensity; refraction; and the nature of light, including the respective merits of the "bullet" theory and the "wave" theory, are discussed. One learns about light and color, why rainbows occur, and how telescopes, microscopes and projectors control light. There are sections on polarized light, light and photosynthesis, and "magical" light effects.

The experiments show that with light all sorts of fascinating things are possible. You can make your own lens and light meter, construct a kaleidoscope, a water-drop microscope, or add a third dimension to your old snapshots. As in their other books, the authors write clearly and accurately about everyday phenomena and give the reader a chance to prove everything for himself. The materials required are expensive ones found at home or in the hardware store.

From the dust jacket